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Home → Home & Kitchen → The Top Patio Heaters [Rankings and Reviews]

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The Top Patio Heaters [Rankings and Reviews]

By Gabe Z | Last Updated September 10, 2020

With summer coming to a close, so does time spent enjoying the patio outdoors. Many of us have used patios as an escape from the great indoors during this quarantine, for we are not eager for the patio season to end. The good news is that it does not have to. With a patio heater, you can continue to enjoy your coveted outdoor space year-round.

Whether you are looking to heat your patio or seek to create comfortable year-round outdoor seating for your restaurant, this article will access the different kinds of patio heaters available and their function.

Buyers Guide

Table of Contents

  • 1 Buyers Guide
  • 2 Our Number #1 Pick
    • 2.1 AmazonBasics Commercial, Propane 46,000 BTU, Outdoor Patio Heater with Wheels, Slate Gray
    • 2.2 Natural Gas Patio Heaters
    • 2.3 Propane
    • 2.4 Electric
    • 2.5 Infrared Patio Heaters:
    • 2.6 Halogen Patio Heaters:
    • 2.7 Hanging Patio Heater
    • 2.8 Umbrella-Mounted Patio Heater
    • 2.9 Wall-Mounted Patio Heater
    • 2.10 Free Standing Patio Heater
    • 2.11 Brands
    • 2.12 Fire Sense Patio Heaters
    • 2.13 AZ Patio Heaters
  • 3 Questions
      • 3.0.1 What About Commercial Patio Heaters?
      • 3.0.2 Are Patio Heaters Worth It?
      • 3.0.3 Can You Put A Patio Heater Under A Covered Porch?
      • 3.0.4 Gas Or Electric Patio Heater?
  • 4 Conclusion

Having a patio heater is essential when it comes to enjoying your outdoor space during the colder months. There are three main types of patio heaters: natural gas, propane, and electric. Every kind of outdoor heater comes with its strength functions and applications.  If your in a rush and want to just skip to our number # 1 Pick look below:

Our Number #1 Pick

AmazonBasics Commercial, Propane 46,000 BTU, Outdoor Patio Heater with Wheels, Slate Gray

Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane...
9,649 Reviews
Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane...
  • Powerful 46,000 BTU outdoor gas heater provides heat up to a 9 foot radius; ideal for commercial cafes and restaurants or home patios
  • Constructed with aluminum, plastic, and steel with a durable powder-coated finish
  • One-touch ignition button for easy start up; requires 20lb liquid propane gas tank (not included); chain included to secure tank
  • Features adjustable temperature knob, tilt safety auto-shut off valve, water box for weighting the base and wheel kit
  • Secure the patio heater when not in use to avoid any potential damage to unit
Check Price
  • Durable, powder-coated Slate Gray finish
  • Heat output of 46,000 BTU’s
  • Piezo ignition
  • Safety auto shut-off tilt valve
  • Wheel assembly included
  • Measures approximately 18×89 inches (L x H)
  • Secure the patio heater when not in use to avoid any potential damage to the patio heater

There is no wonder why this affordable and well-reviewed patio heater is Amazon’s Choice seller in outdoor heaters.

Natural Gas Patio Heaters

Natural Gas Patio Heaters tend to be pricier than other models upfront. However, they are cheaper to operate in the long run because they run on natural gas. One of the most significant issues with patio heaters is being able to run them for a long time.

A natural gas patio heater can run indefinitely by a natural gas line. While being connected to a gas line is a bonus for longevity, being permanently attached to the gas line does limit its portability.

Most natural gas patio heaters are standing units. They should be used in open outdoor areas to promote safe aeration of any fumes at all times.

Propane

Propane heaters are an excellent, portable way to heat a patio. Since these patio heaters do not require a natural gas connection, you can place them anywhere. Your heating time is limited to how much propane you have, and you will need to either refill or buy new propane tanks. A typical 20lb propane tank will run an outdoor heater for roughly 10 hours.

Propane patio heaters are available in standing and tabletop units. Standing units are suitable for heating space and making it enjoyable. Simultaneously, tabletop patio heaters are great for heating small areas and are ideal for outdoor dining.

Electric

Electric patio heaters come in various heating methods and styles, and it is up to you to choose the one which works optimally for your space. The two heating methods are infrared and halogen and you can hang them up in your gazebo, leave them freestanding or mount them on a wall or umbrella. Electric patio heaters are a versatile group but tend to cost more to operate.

Infrared Patio Heaters:

Infrared patio heaters release energy using infrared rays that are then absorbed by people and surfaces directly in the infrared heater’s line of heat distribution.

Because infrared heaters only heat objects and people but not air, infrared heat is energy-efficient. Infrared heaters are also environmentally friendly, quiet, and start heating quickly.

However, infrared heaters emit a certain amount of light, depending on the model, which may or may not be an issue for you. Because infrared heaters only heat objects and people in their direct line of heat distribution, they are not useful for heating large spaces.

When the heater is not in operation, the area cools relatively quickly.

Bestseller No. 1
Panven LQ-H002M Outdoor Propane Patio...
2 Reviews
Panven LQ-H002M Outdoor Propane Patio...
  • OUTDOOR HEATER: Easy to use for everyone, just press the control knob down and push the piezoelectric ignition button 2 or 3 times. Built-in tank...
Check Price
Bestseller No. 2
Bromic Smart Heat Tungsten Electric...
123 Reviews
Bromic Smart Heat Tungsten Electric...
  • Sleek contemporary styling with black high temperature ceramic coating over stainless steel
Check Price
Bestseller No. 3
Outdoor Electric Patio Heater, Haimmy...
129 Reviews
Outdoor Electric Patio Heater, Haimmy...
  • 【Wider Heating & Advanced Heating Tec】Our infrared heater indoor outdoor is 42 inches high, and its heating tube is about two-thirds of its high,...
Check Price

Halogen Patio Heaters:

Halogen heaters work by sending an electrical current through a halogen bulb, which causes it to heat up; however, the machine’s exterior stays cool to the touch. With a cool surface, halogen patio heaters are a safe option for kids and pets. Compared to other heaters, halogen heaters are costly to run. Halogen heaters also emit light.

Both infrared and halogen electric patio heaters are generally safe under covered porches and other semi-enclosed spaces but always check and follow the manufacturer guidelines.

SaleBestseller No. 1
Comfort Zone CZPH20R Outdoor and Indoor...
16 Reviews
Comfort Zone CZPH20R Outdoor and Indoor...
  • ☀️KEEP YOUR SPACE COZY - Stay warm during those cold winter nights with the indoor and outdoor heater. It radiates ample heat, allowing you to...
Check Price
Bestseller No. 2
Star Patio Outdoor Freestanding Electric...
230 Reviews
Star Patio Outdoor Freestanding Electric...
  • Easy to Use: Provides instant, steady, quiet heating with one simple power setting (1500W). Heats up to 12 sq.ft. Minimal set-up required with just a...
Check Price
Bestseller No. 3
Air Choice Patio Heater - Outdoor...
74 Reviews
Air Choice Patio Heater - Outdoor...
  • [1500W 3s Fast Heating] The hanging patio heater has 1500W high power with 3 seconds of rapid heating. You will feel warmth quickly without any...
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Hanging Patio Heater

A hanging electric patio heater would do well suspended in a small place, perfect for heating a covered patio or gazebo. There are many models available, including everything from a necessary heater to built-in ceiling fans.

Bestseller No. 1
Hanging Patio Heater, 1500W...
275 Reviews
Hanging Patio Heater, 1500W...
  • 【SIMPLE ASSEMBLY & 3 ADJUSABLE MODES】The patio heater is very easy to install and use. Each unit has a rope switch. There are 3 heating modes of...
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Bestseller No. 2
Retain Time Electric Heater Indoor...
14 Reviews
Retain Time Electric Heater Indoor...
  • There are 3 temperature options (heat, temperature, temperature), you can choose different temperature in different air temperature and use position.
Check Price
SaleBestseller No. 3
Festa Essential IP55 1500W Electric...
7 Reviews
Festa Essential IP55 1500W Electric...
  • 2 Carbon Fiber Heating Tubes - provide 1500 Watts when combined heating power, produce environmentally-friendly infrared warmth that is hardly...
Check Price

Umbrella-Mounted Patio Heater

Chances are, if you have been enjoying the patio this summer, you have an umbrella gazebo setup. Umbrella-mounted patio heaters are just what they sound like and would make an excellent addition to your patio setup. By attaching to the center pole of the umbrella, you are sure to enjoy your patio as the weather changes since it is foldable and can quickly be stored away.

SaleBestseller No. 1
Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 Carbon...
3,848 Reviews
Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 Carbon...
  • INDOOR and OUTDOOR HEATER - Heater is IP55 approved for both indoor and outdoor use - perfect for home, backyard, garages, open-air restaurant,...
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SaleBestseller No. 2
EAST OAK Patio Heater, Wall Mounted &...
80 Reviews
EAST OAK Patio Heater, Wall Mounted &...
  • 1-SECOND WARMTH AT STARTUP: WITH patented ULG gold-coated heating lamp and infrared electric fast heating technology, the EAST OAK Electric Patio...
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SaleBestseller No. 3
Fire Sense 61322 Portable Patio Heater...
Fire Sense 61322 Portable Patio Heater...
  • PATIO PORTABLE HEATER: This outdoor patio heater spreads the heat in a 100 square feet area so that you can easily enjoy being outdoors even during...
Check Price

Wall-Mounted Patio Heater

This setup is another patio heater mounting method that is just as convenient as the previous mentioned. By using a bracket, you will be able to put this heater just about anywhere. You could attach it to your deck or directly to the side of your house. You can connect the wall-mounted patio heater virtually to any wall to make your outdoor space comfortable year-round.

SaleBestseller No. 1
AKIRES Wall-Mounted Electric Infrared...
10 Reviews
AKIRES Wall-Mounted Electric Infrared...
  • 🔥【Healthy & Comfortable】Advanced infrared radiation heating technology can promote blood circulation and metabolism,protect the body's...
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Bestseller No. 2
KEGIAN Outdoor Heater, 1500W Wall...
20 Reviews
KEGIAN Outdoor Heater, 1500W Wall...
  • 🔥Indoor and Outdoor Use: Patio heater is IP45 approved for both indoor and outdoor use, can be adaptable to various weather, such as drizzle, wind,...
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SaleBestseller No. 3
Electric Patio Heater, 1500W Outdoor...
20 Reviews
Electric Patio Heater, 1500W Outdoor...
  • 【3S Fast Heating & Perfect Heating Effect】If you want to get warming in 3S, you must have this Outdoor electric heater. Using advanced gold tube...
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Free Standing Patio Heater

Freestanding patio heaters require very little set up. As they tend to be larger than their hanging or mounted counterparts, they also tend to put off more heat, making them ideal for larger spaces. This would be an ideal setup for large gatherings or areas that require plenty of surface heat to distribute.

Bestseller No. 1
Kismile Electric Patio Heater,Portable...
285 Reviews
Kismile Electric Patio Heater,Portable...
  • Fast & Quiet heating - Our Patio Heater have the most advanced infrared technology, can give you instant warmth in only 3-5 SECONDS. This outdoor...
Check Price
Bestseller No. 2
Star Patio Outdoor Freestanding Electric...
136 Reviews
Star Patio Outdoor Freestanding Electric...
  • Easy to Use: Provides instant, steady, quiet heating. Heats up to 12 sq.ft. Minimal set-up required with just a pull string switch. 5100 BTUs. Don't...
Check Price
Bestseller No. 3
Happygrill Outdoor Patio Heater with...
11 Reviews
Happygrill Outdoor Patio Heater with...
  • 【Real Warm Dancing Flame】 The patio heater uses LP Gas / Propane to show a real flame in glass heating column that not only gives you enough heat...
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Brands

There are many brands of patio heaters to choose from. Here we will be discussing just a couple of them, so it is important to have an open mind and consider all of your options when it comes to selecting a brand that you trust.

Fire Sense Patio Heaters

Fire Sense has been making electric fireplaces and outdoor heaters since 1998. These patio heaters can be found anywhere from Amazon to Wayfair, making Fire Sense an easy way to find a solution to your patio heating needs.

Fire Sense offers patio heaters that are easy to use, including commercial quality propane heaters. Fire Sense products are perfect for heating an open outdoor space. In addition, if you leave a review of your Fire Sense product on the Fire Sense website, they will double the length of your warranty.

SaleBestseller No. 1
Fire Sense 61322 Portable Patio Heater...
Fire Sense 61322 Portable Patio Heater...
  • PATIO PORTABLE HEATER: This outdoor patio heater spreads the heat in a 100 square feet area so that you can easily enjoy being outdoors even during...
Check Price
SaleBestseller No. 2
Fire Sense 60523 Pyramid Flame Patio...
179 Reviews
Fire Sense 60523 Pyramid Flame Patio...
  • PATIO HEATER: This outdoor patio heater spreads the heat all around you so that you can easily enjoy being outdoors even during chilly weather. It...
Check Price
SaleBestseller No. 3
Fire Sense 61445 Natural Gas Patio...
260 Reviews
Fire Sense 61445 Natural Gas Patio...
  • FIRE SENSE NATURAL GAS PATIO HEATER: Our Stainless Steel Natural Gas Patio Heater is one of the most powerful on the market, with an output of an...
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AZ Patio Heaters

Established in 2002, AZ Patio Heaters not only offers a wide variety of patio heaters, but they also keep a complete line of replacement parts. AZ Patio heaters are at Target and other major retailers.

SaleBestseller No. 1
AZ Patio Heaters GS-F-PC Propane Fire...
1,278 Reviews
AZ Patio Heaters GS-F-PC Propane Fire...
  • New and Improved Packaging to ensure safe and complete delivery
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Bestseller No. 2
Az Patio Heaters THP-BLD Hiland Weight...
18 Reviews
Az Patio Heaters THP-BLD Hiland Weight...
  • Model #: THP-BLD
Check Price
Bestseller No. 3
Az Patio Heaters THP-TBL Hiland Table in...
1 Reviews
Az Patio Heaters THP-TBL Hiland Table in...
  • Model #: THP-TBL-BZ
Check Price

Questions

What About Commercial Patio Heaters?

If you are nervous about what running a restaurant in the wintertime will bring, a commercial patio heater might be the solution. With a few commercial patio heaters, you will keep your outdoor seating area open and comfortable year-round for your customers.

Commercial patio heaters are found in various styles, making it a sure shot to find a functional heater that is an aesthetically pleasing addition to your restaurant’s décor.

Keep in mind that you do not have to own a restaurant to own a commercial patio heater – your patio could always benefit from a robust heater if you so please.

Are Patio Heaters Worth It?

Only you can decide if a patio heater is worth it for you and your outdoor patio needs.

Are you spending enough time out in your backyard? Do you prefer to spend more time outside of your home than you do inside?

If you find that you are spending a lot of time on your patio, then the investment for a patio heater is worth it. If the idea of hanging out on your patio in the snow while you are warm and comfortable is unappealing, then patio heaters are not for you. It all boils down to how much time you are spending on your patio.

As a restaurant or bar owner, a patio heater will keep your outdoor space comfortable year-round. Before COVID-19, having a heated outdoor space may not have been necessary, but with social distancing guidelines in place, having a functional and comfortable outdoor space is a must.

Can You Put A Patio Heater Under A Covered Porch?

You will need to do some research and always check the manufacturer’s instructions. Generally, electric outdoor heaters are safe under a covered porch while open flames are not. Most propane and gas heaters are not recommended for use in covered areas. Use propane and gas heaters according to manufacturer specifications.

Gas Or Electric Patio Heater?

Gas and electric patio heaters both have their advantages. It all comes down to the space that you want to heat. A natural gas heater will be more costly upfront but cheaper to run in the long term. You will also need to make sure that there is enough air circulation to aerate any potentially dangerous fumes.

Propane patio heaters are portable, while an electric patio heater can only operate on a covered and enclosed outdoor patio. Depending on your space, you will need to choose your patio heater’s configuration and heating method wisely.

Conclusion

A patio heater can make your outdoor space a comfortable place to hang out year-round. After analyzing the different kinds of patio heaters available along with their functions, it is clear that there are plenty of options to choose from.

Electric outdoor heaters tend to be safe for use on covered patios, but are often best suited for small spaces. Propane heaters are portable but have limitations set by the size of their propane tanks. Natural gas patio heaters offer unlimited heating time but are not very mobile.

With the wide variety of patio heater options available, you will indeed find the perfect outdoor heater for your needs if you determine what it is that you will be using it most for.

About Gabe Z

Gabe is the Owner of 10BestRanked - he's passionate about sports like cycling, brazilian jiu jitsu and soccer. Has a 20 year history using and reviewing tech products/gadgets, staying fit & healthy, and producing the best resource for any topic he reviews.

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